CliffNotes
- Two Israeli embassy staffers shot dead in Washington DC
- The attack took place outside the Capital Jewish Museum
- The suspect named as Elias Rodriguez from Chicago
Two Israeli embassy staffers shot dead in Washington DC
What Happened
Two Israeli embassy staffers, a young couple on the verge of getting engaged, were shot dead in Washington, DC on Wednesday night.
The attack took place outside the Capital Jewish Museum, around a mile from the White House.
The suspect, 30-year-old Elias Rodriguez from Chicago, opened fire on a group of four people, killing the couple. He was quickly detained by security inside the museum, and reportedly chanted “Free Palestine” after his arrest.
What’s Been Said
Police described it as a targeted act of violence, and the FBI is now leading the investigation. The suspect had no prior contact with law enforcement.
Tributes have poured in:
- Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu called the shooting a “heinous anti-Semitic” attack.
- President Donald Trump condemned the killings and blamed rising antisemitism.
- US and Israeli officials, including President Isaac Herzog and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, expressed outrage and vowed justice.
The male victim had recently bought an engagement ring, intending to propose in Jerusalem next week.
What Next
The killings are expected to intensify the political debate in both the US and Israel:
- In the US, the attack will likely further polarise the already heated discussion around the Gaza conflict.
- In Israel, the incident could be used to justify tougher policies on Gaza and rally international sympathy.
Investigators are continuing to question the suspect. The motive is still under review, though officials have labelled it a hate-driven, antisemitic attack.
Community members have since gathered at the scene in solidarity, vowing not to be silenced by hate.